for itself

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for itself" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is self-sufficient or independent, often in a philosophical or abstract context. Example: "The artwork stands for itself, conveying deep emotions without the need for explanation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It speaks for itself.

The New York Times

His CV speaks for itself".

Independent

His courage speaks for itself.

The New Yorker

Sayedee's treatment speaks for itself.

The New York Times

Relish every interview for itself.

The New York Times

My numbers speak for itself.

The New York Times

The data speaks for itself.

Independent

"The evidence speaks for itself.

The Economist

"His performance speaks for itself.

The New York Times - Sports

"Chicago never apologizes for itself.

The New York Times

"Our record speaks for itself".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for itself" to emphasize that something's value or significance is inherent and doesn't rely on external factors or comparisons. It is often used to convey self-sufficiency or intrinsic worth.

Common error

Avoid using "for itself" when you actually need to specify what something is beneficial or relevant for. The phrase implies inherent value; if the value depends on a specific context, be explicit.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for itself" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate that an action or quality is self-evident, inherent, or independent of external factors. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples where the phrase is used to emphasize the self-explanatory nature of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "for itself" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to denote self-sufficiency, inherent quality, or obviousness. As Ludwig AI's analysis confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, from news and media to scientific writing. When writing, use "for itself" to emphasize that something's value or significance is inherent and doesn't rely on external factors. However, be mindful not to use it when you need to specify what something is beneficial or relevant for. Consider using alternatives like "on its own merits" or "in its own right" for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on its own merits

This phrase emphasizes that something should be judged based on its qualities, without external factors influencing the evaluation.

in its own right

This phrase suggests that something is valuable or worthy of respect independently of anything else.

by its own nature

This highlights the intrinsic qualities or characteristics that define something.

as is

This indicates that something is being presented or accepted in its current condition, without modifications or improvements.

without external influence

This phrase emphasizes the absence of outside factors affecting something's state or judgment.

self-contained

Suggests that something is complete and independent, not requiring anything else.

intrinsically

This adverb highlights that a quality is inherent and essential to something.

of its own accord

Implies that something happens spontaneously, without being forced or prompted.

unaided

This suggests that something is achieved without assistance or help from others.

independently

This adverb shows that something is acting without outside control or influence.

FAQs

How can I use "for itself" in a sentence?

Use "for itself" to show that something's value or significance is inherent and doesn't rely on external factors. For example, "The evidence speaks "for itself", showing clearly what occurred."

What does it mean when something 'speaks for itself'?

It means that the facts or qualities are so evident that no further explanation or justification is needed. The term suggests the thing's inherent nature is easily understood. For a deeper explanation, check out the definition of "speak for itself".

When is it appropriate to use "on its own merits" instead of "for itself"?

Use "on its own merits" when emphasizing that something should be judged based on its qualities alone, without external influences. "For itself" is broader, implying self-sufficiency or inherent quality. The artwork should be judged "on its own merits".

What is the difference between "in its own right" and "for itself"?

"In its own right" means something is valuable or worthy of respect independently. "For itself" emphasizes self-sufficiency. She is a talented artist "in her own right".